{"id":8437,"date":"2016-05-12T12:11:10","date_gmt":"2016-05-12T11:11:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/design.doctorfox.co.uk\/news\/?p=8437"},"modified":"2023-10-11T14:28:16","modified_gmt":"2023-10-11T13:28:16","slug":"antibiotic-guardianship","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.doctorfox.co.uk\/news\/antibiotic-guardianship\/","title":{"rendered":"Antibiotic Guardianship"},"content":{"rendered":"

Last updated 11 October 2023<\/small><\/p>

\"Antibiotic<\/div>\n

Antibiotic resistance is one of our biggest threats<\/h2>\n

It is already happening and is just as great an issue as climate change and world hunger. To slow resistance we need to cut overuse and misuse of antibiotics.<\/p>\n

What YOU can do<\/h2>\n

1. Only use antibiotics when absolutely necessary<\/h3>\n

Antibiotics will NOT treat cold, flu, cough, sore throat, sinusitis, and middle ear infections – these are caused by viruses. Antibiotics kill bacteria.
\nSymptoms can be managed without antibiotics – read the NHS leaflet<\/a>.<\/p>\n

2. Always complete the full course as per instructions<\/h3>\n

Even if your symptoms have all gone and you feel fine. Failure to complete the course gives bacteria a chance to develop an immunity to that antibiotic. See the video below about antibiotic resistance.<\/p>\n

3. Never share antibiotics<\/h3>\n

For instance, if you are given antibiotics when you don\u2019t need them you run the risk of carrying antibiotic resistant bacteria in your gut. If these bacteria go on to cause an infection, antibiotics may not work when you really need them.<\/p>\n

4. Always take unused medicines to a local pharmacy for disposal<\/h3>\n

Throwing antibiotic into landfill allows bacteria in that landfill an opportunity to develop an immunity.<\/p>\n

5. Check pack information<\/h3>\n

Store antibiotics in suitable conditions (not too hot), and check expiry date before use.<\/p>\n